KRA intercepts uncustomed ethanol worth Sh11 million
Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) together with other government agencies has intercepted a truck carrying 54 drums of uncustomed ethanol.The drums were carrying 250 litres each with an estimated market value of Sh10.9 million. The ethanol had a tax implication of Sh6.7 million.
A multiagency team based in Suam Border Office intercepted the consignment along the Kacheliba-Makutano route in West Pokot County.
The team based was acting on a tip-off from the public when they intercepted the truck and conducted a 100 per cent verification on the consignment.
Upon verification the officers confirmed that the truck was ferrying drums of ethanol, 133 crates with assorted empty beer bottles and 301 empty beer crates.
“Upon interrogation, the truck driver had initially stated that he was transporting alcoholic beverages from Uganda to Kainuk. The consignment has been detained by the National Police Service as investigations are ongoing,” said Lilian Nyawanda, commissioner, Customs and Border Control department at Kenya Revenue Authority.
The taxman continues to collaborate with multiagency teams to enhance vigilance at the ports of entry. This is part of initiatives geared towards promoting legitimate trade, mobilizing revenue and protecting the society from proliferation of harmful products.
It is estimated that KRA loses about Sh53 billion in tax evasion every quarter of the year. Commissioner for Tax investigations and enforcements Kenya Revenue Authority says the money lost was primarily from cases already in court.
